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Tomato Basil Soup Comfort

Featured in: Crispy Appetizers

Tomato Basil Soup delivers rich Italian flavor through ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil simmered to perfection. Onion and garlic deepen the savory base, while vegetable broth adds comforting warmth. Pureed for a silky smooth texture, this soup can be finished with cream or milk for added richness, or kept dairy-free and vegan. Easily adaptable to suit vegetarian or gluten-free diets, and perfect as a cozy meal with crusty bread or grilled cheese. Quick to prepare in under an hour, it brings home the taste of fresh, seasonal ingredients all year long.

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Updated on Wed, 22 Oct 2025 19:11:10 GMT
Close-up shows smoothly blended Tomato Basil Soup, a warm, fragrant bowl with fresh herbs. Save
Close-up shows smoothly blended Tomato Basil Soup, a warm, fragrant bowl with fresh herbs. | fryzia.com

This classic tomato basil soup is everything you crave on a chilly evening or as a light summer lunch. Brimming with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, it delivers silky smooth comfort in a bowl and comes together easily with just a handful of wholesome ingredients.

The first time I made this my little one licked the bowl clean. Now we keep fresh basil on hand just for this soup

Ingredients

  • Olive oil: Adds subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the aromatics Choose high quality extra virgin
  • Yellow onion: Provides natural sweetness and a mellow flavor Look for firm onions with papery skin
  • Garlic: Brings a pleasant depth and classic Italian aroma Use fresh cloves not preminced
  • Ripe tomatoes: The core of the soup Choose the ripest you can find or go for good quality canned whole tomatoes
  • Vegetable broth: Rounds out flavors and keeps the soup light Opt for low sodium for more control
  • Sugar: Optional but helps balance acidity of some tomatoes A small pinch goes a long way
  • Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing the bright flavors to life Start with less and adjust to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a delicate bite Grind fresh if possible for best flavor
  • Fresh basil: Bright and aromatic Use only fresh leaves and pack them for a robust basil note
  • Heavy cream or whole milk: Optional for creamy texture and added richness Go for full fat for the best mouthfeel

Instructions

Sauté the Base:
Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add diced onion and stir frequently for about five minutes until translucent This step draws out sweetness to create a gentle foundation
Build Aroma:
Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for one minute until you catch a whiff of its perfume This prevents bitterness and balances the flavor
Simmer Tomatoes:
Add chopped fresh or canned tomatoes plus their juices Cook them for about five to seven minutes Stir occasionally until the tomatoes start to soften and blend with the onions
Flavor and Simmer:
Pour in vegetable broth Sprinkle in sugar salt and pepper if using Stir everything together Bring the pot to a low boil then immediately lower the heat Simmer uncovered for twenty minutes Stir every so often until everything melds
Finish with Basil:
Toss the fresh basil leaves into the pot Simmer just two minutes to infuse the essential oils and keep their color bright
Puree for Smoothness:
Take the soup off the heat Use an immersion blender and puree until velvety smooth Alternatively blend in batches in a countertop blender then pour back into the pot
Add Cream and Adjust:
If extra creaminess is desired stir in heavy cream or milk Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper Keep the heat low if reheating Avoid boiling after adding dairy
Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls Top with extra basil or a swirl of olive oil Serve right away alongside your favorite bread
Homemade Tomato Basil Soup recipe, a vibrant red puree, ready to be enjoyed with crusty bread. Save
Homemade Tomato Basil Soup recipe, a vibrant red puree, ready to be enjoyed with crusty bread. | fryzia.com

Kid approved and naturally gluten free I am always surprised at how just a handful of basil leaves transform this soup. My favorite memory is my grandmother sharing tips on adding basil right at the end for unbeatable brightness

Storage Tips

Let the soup cool fully before storing Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to five days Reheat gently on the stove to preserve its fresh flavor For longer storage freeze portions in labeled freezer bags for up to three months Always leave a little room for expansion

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a dairy free version skip the cream or use oat or coconut milk For deeper flavor try fire roasted canned tomatoes In a pinch dried basil will work but add it earlier in the simmer to help it soften

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with a simple grilled cheese or rustic whole grain bread For a more elegant meal drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a scattering of microgreens Warm crusty ciabatta is my go to side every single time

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simple steps for a flavorful lunch or dinner, easily customizable. Save
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simple steps for a flavorful lunch or dinner, easily customizable. | fryzia.com

Blend again before reheating for best texture and be sure to add the cream only after defrosting right before serving

Recipe FAQ Section

→ How can I enhance the flavor?

Roast the tomatoes before simmering to create deeper, caramelized notes in the soup.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Omit cream or milk, or substitute with unsweetened plant-based alternatives for a vegan option.

→ What's the best way to puree the soup?

An immersion blender gives the smoothest texture. You can also use a countertop blender in batches.

→ What pairs well with this soup?

Serve alongside crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or with a sprinkle of fresh basil.

→ Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, canned whole peeled tomatoes work well and provide consistent flavor throughout the year.

→ How do I adjust the seasoning?

Taste before serving; add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity, as needed.

Tomato Basil Soup Comfort

Smooth blend of ripe tomatoes and basil, easy to make and full of vibrant flavor—perfect for anytime comfort.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
30 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created by Samantha Rivera

Classification Crispy Appetizers

Complexity Level Easy

Heritage Italian

Output 4 Portion Count

Dietary considerations Meat-Free, No Gluten

Components

Vegetables

01 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped, or two 14-ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes

Liquids

01 2 cups vegetable broth

Herbs & Seasonings

01 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
02 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
03 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
04 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

Dairy (optional)

01 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional, for creaminess)

Preparation Steps

Phase 01

Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.

Phase 02

Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.

Phase 03

Cook Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped tomatoes with juices if using canned. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to break down.

Phase 04

Simmer the Base: Pour in vegetable broth, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes; stir occasionally.

Phase 05

Add Basil: Stir in basil leaves and simmer for 2 minutes.

Phase 06

Blend Until Smooth: Remove pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth, or transfer in batches to a countertop blender and return to the pot.

Phase 07

Finish and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in heavy cream or whole milk if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Phase 08

Serve: Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil.

Necessary tools

  • Large pot
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Immersion blender or countertop blender
  • Ladle

Allergy information

Review all ingredients for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about any item.
  • Contains dairy if cream or milk is included.
  • Naturally gluten-free; verify that broth and dairy products are certified gluten-free.
  • For vegan preparation, use plant-based cream or milk substitutes.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are approximate and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy Value: 140
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Protein Content: 3 g